Firing techniques
Alongside my porcelain sculpture, I have been developing a range
of smoked and raku-fired pieces which derive their impetus largely from the natural world: these include studies of hares,
crows and poultry and aim for a simplicity of expression that conveys the character of the creature in view.
I have also for many years been pursuing an ocean-related theme (the
sea, the sea!!) which has resulted variously in images of boats, fish & whales ~ clearly my Pisces star sign surfacing
here!
Pots and Vessels
But my most recent work has been concentrating on the thrown form, used again in a
sculptural way, but now exploring the intoxicating world of wood-firing ~ the common theme, as well as the Piscean, being
pyromania! Studying the firing techniques of Nic Collins, as well as traditional Japanese approaches, I have explored
different clays for their ability to react to ash deposits, and have
become absorbed by the infinite possibilties of glaze and slip effects, and those of specific wood ashes, either
applied to the pot or introduced to the kiln during firing.
Endless possibilities present themselves here, and the results of
my explorations can be seen at the forthcoming Open Studio event at the gallery at the beginning of December.
